How the Closure of Big National Tax Prep Chains May Affect Your Practice

While our country continues to come together — while staying responsibly distant — to fight COVID-19, many of us are feeling the impact of stay-at-home orders and mandated quarantine. Despite the unprecedented lengths to which we all must go to stay healthy and slow the spread of the virus, taxpayers across America must still find a secure and convenient way to file their returns.

The closure of brick-and-mortar tax offices has been deemed a necessity in numerous states over the past two months. Though thousands of filers prefer the face-to-face interaction afforded by an appointment with their local tax professional, most have begun to come to terms with this new norm — and they’re looking for a solution that fits their needs. That’s where your practice — and TaxAct® Professional software — comes into play.

Making the Most of the Current Situation

With the filing deadline extension comes an opportunity to expand your client base and help even more taxpayers file their return with confidence, even if it is from afar. So how do you reach this audience of potential clients while you conduct your business from home?

As always, word of mouth is a powerful thing. It’s likely that at least a few of your current clients — or even some of those you have served in prior years — know someone who’s looking for a tax professional right about now. A simple email, text, or phone call to check in can lead to a friendly conversation that, in turn, naturally leads to a referral or two down the line.

Going the Online Route

In addition to amassing new clients through existing ones, try getting the “we’re still open” message out via social media. Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and other popular online outlets offer the opportunity to advertise your availability to far more customers. While the quality of your service does speak for itself, building awareness of your business in the first place is key.

Reaching prospective customers online doesn’t happen overnight, of course, but you have to start somewhere. Recommendations from family, friends, and colleagues on social media can work wonders. Ask that your business page be tagged on apps like Nextdoor and across social platforms like Yelp. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of this common form of free advertising right now; it’s one of the most effective ways to build trust and credibility online.

Growing Despite Economic Challenges

Perhaps more than ever, people are looking for reassurance and certainty, particularly when it comes to their finances. Develop a reputation as an expert in all things tax, and your practice will continue to flourish throughout this pandemic and beyond. And if your business outgrows your current tax software, TaxAct Professional will still have you — and your new clients — covered for years to come.